Sports equipment handle having tactile biofeedback reference feature

ABSTRACT

A sports equipment handle that provides a user with tactile biofeedback is provided. The handle includes a handle body having an upper portion, a lower portion, a grip length, a proximal end, a distal end, and an exterior body surface. The exterior body surface is defined by a first octant, a second octant, a third octant, a fourth octant, a fifth octant, a sixth octant, a seventh octant, and an eighth octant. The handle includes at least a first tactile reference indentation that extends longitudinally along the exterior body surface and is confined to a first tactile octant. The first tactile reference indentation is formed with dimensions specifically tailored to harness the user&#39;s natural attributes of sensibility, proprioception, and neuromuscular memory to improve a user&#39;s accuracy.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 61/601,075, filed on Feb. 21, 2012, all of whichare incorporated by reference as if completely written herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the field of sports equipment, andmore particularly, to a sports equipment handle that provides a userwith tactile biofeedback.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The sports equipment handle is perhaps the most overlooked andunderappreciated piece of sports equipment. Sports equipment handletechnology has changed very little over the past few decades.

For the most part, the sports equipment handle has not been consideredas a means for game improvement. Rather, the sports industry hasprimarily focused on the impact head of a racquet or paddle, cue tip,materials of construction, aerodynamics, and projectile advancements asthe sole means for helping improve the sportsman's game. Many modernracquets, paddles, and bats are designed to be more forgiving when asportsman does not hit the ball in the sports equipment's sweet spot, ormakes an errant throw. However, modern racquets, paddle heads, cuesticks, bat bodies, dart bodies, and archery/firearm designs do verylittle to help a sportsman consistently hit the ball in the sportsequipment's sweet spot or make consistent accurate shots or throws.

Interestingly, the sports industry has ignored the only physicalconnection between the sportsman and the sports equipment (i.e., thesports equipment handle) as a vehicle for solving the problem of asportsman's game performance. The presently disclosed sport equipmenthandle solves the problem by providing at least one tactile structurethat harnesses the innate attributes and processes of the sportsman'sbody.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In its most general configuration, the presently disclosed sportequipment handle advances the state of the art with a variety of newcapabilities and overcomes many of the shortcomings of prior devices innew and novel ways. The presently disclosed sport equipment handleovercomes the shortcomings and limitations of the prior art in any of anumber of generally effective configurations. The presently disclosedsport equipment handle demonstrates such capabilities and overcomes manyof the shortcomings of prior methods in new and novel ways.

The present disclosure relates to a sport equipment handle that providesa user with tactile biofeedback. The sport equipment handle includes ahandle body having an upper portion, a lower portion, a handle length, aproximal end, a distal end, and an exterior body surface. The exteriorbody surface is defined by a first octant, a second octant, a thirdoctant, a fourth octant, a fifth octant, a sixth octant, a seventhoctant, and an eighth octant. The sports equipment handle includes atleast a tactile reference indentation or projection that extendslongitudinally along the exterior body surface. The tactile referenceindentation or projection is formed with dimensions specificallytailored to harness the user's natural attributes of sensibility,proprioception, and neuromuscular memory to enable the user toconsistently hit a projectile with accuracy, throw a projectile withaccuracy, or shoot a projectile with accuracy.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Without limiting the scope of the sports equipment handle and system asclaimed below and referring now to the drawings and figures:

FIG. 1 (A) is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sportsequipment handle on a baseball bat, not to scale;

FIG. 1 (B) is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sportsequipment handle on a baseball bat, not to scale;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the sportsequipment handle taken along section line 2-2, not to scale;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle taken along section line 3-3, not to scale;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle, not to scale;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the sportsequipment handle, not to scale;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the sportsequipment handle, not to scale;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle, not to scale;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle, not to scale;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the sportsequipment handle, not to scale;

FIG. 10 is an elevation view of a user's thumb showing a dermal imprint,not to scale;

FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a baseball bat, not to scale;

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a ping-pong paddle, not to scale;

FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a ping-pong paddle, not to scale;

FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a badminton racquet, not to scale;

FIG. 15 is a side elevation view of an elevation view of an embodimentof a sports equipment handle on a badminton racquet, not to scale;

FIG. 16 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a tennis racquet, not to scale;

FIG. 17 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a tennis racquet, not to scale;

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a racquet ball racquet, not to scale;

FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a racquet ball racquet, not to scale;

FIG. 20 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a cricket bat, not to scale;

FIG. 21 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a cricket bat, not to scale;

FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a pool cue, not to scale;

FIG. 23 is a bottom elevation view of a pool cue end cap, not to scale;

FIG. 24 is a side elevation view of a pool cue end cap, not to scale;

FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of a pool cue end cap and pool cue,not to scale;

FIG. 26 is an elevation view of a pool cue bridge, not to scale;

FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a dart, not to scale;

FIG. 28 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a dart, not to scale;

FIG. 29 is an elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a firearm, not to scale; and

FIG. 30 is an elevation view of an embodiment of a sports equipmenthandle on a firearm, not to scale.

These drawings are provided to assist in the understanding of theexemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed sports equipment handleas described in more detail below and should not be construed as undulylimiting the sports equipment handle and system. In particular, therelative spacing, positioning, sizing and dimensions of the variouselements illustrated in the drawings are not drawn to scale and may havebeen exaggerated, reduced or otherwise modified for the purpose ofimproved clarity. Those of ordinary skill in the art will alsoappreciate that a range of alternative configurations have been omittedsimply to improve the clarity and reduce the number of drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A sports equipment handle (100) that provides a user with tactilebiofeedback enables a significant advance in the state of the art. Thepreferred embodiments of the device accomplish this by new and novelarrangements of elements and methods that are configured in unique andnovel ways and which demonstrate previously unavailable but preferredand desirable capabilities. The detailed description set forth below inconnection with the drawings is intended merely as a description of thepresently preferred embodiments of the sports equipment handle (100),and is not intended to represent the only form in which the presentsports equipment handle (100) may be constructed or utilized. Thedescription sets forth the designs, functions, means, and methods ofgripping the sports equipment handle (100) in connection with theillustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the sameor equivalent functions and features may be accomplished by differentembodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spiritand scope of the sports equipment handle (100).

FIGS. 1-30 illustrate numerous embodiments of a sports equipment handle(100) that provides a user with tactile biofeedback. The sportsequipment handle (100) includes at least one tactile structurespecifically tailored to exploit and harness the innate attributes andprocesses of the human body to allow the user to consistently hit,throw, or shoot a projectile with accuracy.

Referring now to FIG. 1 (A), an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a baseball bat is illustrated. As seen in FIG. 1 (A), thesports equipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having anupper portion (102), a lower portion (103), a handle length (110), aproximal end (120), a distal end (130), and an exterior body surface(160). The upper portion (102) and the lower portion (103) correspond tothe portion of the handle body (101) that is above the midpoint of thehandle length (110) and below the midpoint of the handle length (110),respectively. Generally, for a right-handed user using a conventionalgripping style, the upper portion (102) is where a majority of theuser's left hand would grasp the sports equipment handle (100) and thelower portion (103) is where a majority of the user's right hand wouldgrasp the sports equipment handle (100).

As seen in FIG. 2, in this embodiment the handle body (101) has asubstantially circular cross-section throughout the handle length (110),however the present invention is not limited to circular handles. Theexterior body surface (160) is defined by a first octant (161), a secondoctant (162), a third octant (163), a fourth octant (164), a fifthoctant (165), a sixth octant (166), a seventh octant (167), and aneighth octant (168). The octants (161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167,168) are defined by the intersection of four imaginary vertical planes(20, 30, 40, 50), with each vertical plane (20, 30, 40, 50) spaced 45degrees from the adjacent vertical planes (20, 30, 40, 50), as seen wellin FIG. 2. Preferably, the four imaginary vertical planes (20, 30, 40,50) intersect at the geometric center of the proximal end (120), i.e.,the butt end, of the sports equipment handle (100); however the planesmay be positioned to pass the a cross-sectional centroid of the handle.The four imaginary vertical planes (20, 30, 40, 50) may be rotated aboutthe geometric center of the proximal end (120) to define a position ofthe octants (161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168). Moreover, thesports equipment handle (100) may include visual indicia, such aspainted lines, on the exterior body surface (160) that visuallydelineates the octants (161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168). Thetactile reference indentations (200) illustrated in FIGS. 2, 4, 6, and 8have flat sidewalls and a flat bottom, but this is not necessary. Thetactile reference indentations may have a “V” shaped cross-section oreven a curved bottom cross-section, it is more important that thesurface edges of the tactile reference indentations (200) have verysmall, or no, radius of curvature so that the edges are very distinct.In one embodiment, radius of curvature from the indentation (200)sidewall to the adjacent handle, or grip, surface is 0.35 millimeters orless. Such a dimension for the radius of curvature accommodatestwo-point discrimination by making the edge relatively fine and thuscapable of distinction by feel. In another embodiment this radius ofcurvature is zero, meaning that the indentation and the adjacent handle,or grip, meet at a distinct line. In an even further embodiment, and asillustrated in FIG. 2, the indentation (200) sidewalls meet the adjacenthandle, or grip, surface at substantially a 90 degree angle.

As seen in the embodiment of FIG. 1 (A), the sports equipment handle(100) includes at least a tactile reference indentation (200 a)extending longitudinally along the exterior body surface (160). Thetactile reference indentation (200 a) has a tactile referenceindentation length (210 a), a tactile reference indentation width (220a), and a tactile reference indentation depth (230 a), as seen in FIGS.1 (A) and 2. The tactile reference indentation (200 a) is confined to afirst tactile octant selected from the group consisting of the firstoctant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant (163), thefourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166), theseventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168). In the embodiment ofFIG. 2 the first tactile octant is the second octant (162) and thetactile reference indentation (200 a) is confined to the second octant(162). However, the first tactile octant may be the first octant (161),the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165),the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), or the eighth octant(168).

In this particular embodiment, there is only the tactile referenceindentation (200 a) in the first tactile octant. It should be noted thatwhile this particular embodiment includes “only” the tactile referenceindentation (200 a) in the first tactile octant, this does not mean thatthe exterior body surface (160) cannot have additional surface patterns,texture changes, or other similar features. When the term “only” is usedin connection with describing a tactile reference indentation (200 a) incertain tactile octants (i.e., “there is only the tactile referenceindentation (200 a) in the first octant”), it means that the tactileoctants do not contain any additional palpable indicia adjacent to thetactile reference indentation (200 a). The term palpable indicia, asused throughout this specification, means a structure having a depth orheight of at least 0.4 millimeters, a width of at least 1.0 millimeters,and a length of at least 25 millimeters.

In another embodiment of the sports equipment handle (100), the sportsequipment handle (100) may include a tactile reference projection (300a) extending longitudinally along the exterior body surface (160), asseen in FIGS. 1 (B) and 3. The tactile reference projection (300 a) hasa tactile reference projection length (310 a), tactile referenceprojection width (320 a), and a tactile reference projection height (330a), as seen in FIG. 3. The tactile reference projection (300 a) isconfined to a first tactile octant selected from the group consisting ofthe first octant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant (163),the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166),the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168). As seen in FIG.3, in this embodiment the first tactile octant is the second octant(162) and the tactile reference projection (300 a) is confined to thesecond octant (162). However, the first tactile octant may also be thefirst octant (161), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), thefifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), orthe eighth octant (168). The tactile reference projections (300)illustrated in FIGS. 3, 5, 7, and 9 have flat sidewalls and a flat top,but this is not necessary. The tactile reference projections may havevirtually any cross-sectional shape provided that the outermost surfacehas two relatively well defined longitudinal edges. In other words,while the intersection of the sidewall surfaces to the adjacent handle,or grip, may be smooth and nondistinct, it is more important that theedges along the outermost surface of the tactile reference projections(300) have very small, or no, radius of curvature so that the edges arevery distinct. In one embodiment, radius of curvature from theprojection (300) sidewall to the outermost surface of the projection(300) is 0.35 millimeters or less. Such a dimension for the radius ofcurvature accommodates two-point discrimination by making the edgerelatively fine and thus capable of distinction by feel. In anotherembodiment this radius of curvature is zero, meaning that the projectionand the adjacent projection sidewall meet at a distinct line. In an evenfurther embodiment, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the projection (300)sidewalls meet the adjacent outermost surface at substantially a 90degree angle.

In this particular embodiment, as seen in FIG. 3, there is only thetactile reference projection (300 a) in the first tactile octant. Itshould be noted that while this particular embodiment includes “only”the tactile reference projection (300 a) in the first tactile octant,this does not mean that the exterior body surface (160) cannot haveadditional surface patterns, texture changes, or other similar features.When the term “only” is used in connection with describing a tactilereference projection (300 a) in certain tactile octants (i.e., “there isonly the tactile reference projection (300 a) in the first octant”), itmeans that the tactile octants do not contain any additional palpableindicia adjacent the tactile reference projection (300 a).

The tactile reference indentation width (220 a) and the tactilereference projection width (320 a) are at least 2.0 millimeters and nogreater than 5.0 millimeters, and the tactile reference indentationdepth (230 a) and tactile reference projection height (330 a) are atleast 0.5 millimeters. These specific dimensions are important becausethey exploit several of the user's normal human body attributes toenable the user to consistently grip a sports equipment handle (100) andrecognize the position of the handle in space, thereby improving auser's ability to hit, or throw, a projectile with accuracy. The sportsequipment handle (100) enhances users perception and awareness of the“spatial” relationship of the instrument attached to the handle (100)allowing for improved performance. These attributes include sensibility,proprioception, and neuromuscular memory.

Sensibility is the body's ability to determine fine objects by feel.This ability is measured by what is known as two-point discrimination.Two-point discrimination is defined as the ability to discern that twonearby objects touching the skin are truly two distinct points, not one.The test for two-point discrimination is usually performed utilizing twosharp points. Typically, a person has the most sensibility on theirfinger pads and lips. A normal measurement for two-point discriminationon the finger pads is a width of 2.0 millimeters to 5.0 millimeters,while other body parts, such as the back, have much larger measurementsdue to less nerve endings. When the two points are closer together thanthe range of two-point discrimination a person cannot tell whether theyare being contacted by one point or two points.

Proprioception is the unconscious perception of movement and spatialorientation arising from stimuli within the body itself. For humans,these stimuli are detected by nerves within the body, such as in joints,tendons, and muscles. A practical example of proprioception is theability to close one's eyes and touch the index fingers of both handstogether without looking. As a result of proprioception, the human bodyhas the ability to know exactly where it is in space. The human bodyalso has the ability to remember and repeat past movements, which arereferred to as neuromuscular memory. As sensations are recorded by thebody and movements are repeated over time, the body develops an abilityto repeat movements without conscious effort.

A user's connection to a piece of sports equipment is established bywhat they perceive through the handle. The presently disclosed sportsequipment handle (100) harnesses a user's sensibility by providing atleast a tactile reference indentation (200 a) or tactile referenceprojection (300 a) extending longitudinally along the exterior bodysurface (160) of the sports equipment handle (100) to create an intimateconnection between at least one of the user's hands and the sportsequipment handle (100). As previously mentioned, the tactile referenceindentation width (220 a) and the tactile reference projection width(320 a) is at least 2.0 millimeters and no greater than 5.0 millimeters,which, importantly, corresponds to the normal range for two-pointdiscrimination on the finger pads, thumb, and/or palm to provide theuser with tactile biofeedback. Moreover, most humans do not have theability to perceive a structure having a depth of less than 0.5millimeters and a width of less than 2.0 millimeters with the fingerpads, thumb, and/or palm. As a result, providing at least a tactilereference indentation (200 a) or tactile reference projection (300 a)extending longitudinally along the exterior body surface (160) with atactile reference indentation width (220 a) or tactile referenceprojection width (320 a) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greater than5.0 millimeters and a tactile reference indentation depth (230 a) ortactile reference projection height (330 a) of at least 0.5 millimeters,which provides the highest level of sensibility, allows the finger pads,thumb, and/or palm to function as high level neurological informationcollectors. The finger pads, thumb, and/or palm, as high levelneurological information collectors, are able to recognize the locationand orientation of the tactile reference indentation (200 a) or thetactile reference projection (300 a), which is in the same spatialrelationship as the sports equipment handle. In sports in which theplayers typically wear gloves the tactile reference indentation depth(230 a) or tactile reference projection height (330 a) may be increasedto overcome the loss of sensitivity as a result of the glove layer. Inone embodiment directed to gloved sports the tactile referenceindentation depth (230 a) or tactile reference projection height (330 a)is at least 1.0 millimeter, and more preferably at least 2.0millimeters.

Due to the intimate connection and the high level of sensibilityprovided by the specifically tailored tactile reference indentation (200a) or the tactile reference projection (300 a) of the sports equipmenthandle (100), the sports equipment becomes like an extension of theuser's body. At this point, the user's natural ability of proprioceptionis engaged, which allows the user to unconsciously perceive andspontaneously direct the sports equipment's movement in space due to thehigh level of sensibility provided by tactile reference indentation (200a) or the tactile reference projection (300 a) extending longitudinallyalong the exterior body surface (160) of the sports equipment handle(100). As a result, the user will know where the sports equipment is inspace and can make conscious, or even unconscious, adjustments to ensurethat the projectile is consistently hit, or thrown, with accuracy.

Additionally, the sports equipment handle (100) builds upon thebeneficial attributes provided by the high level of sensibility andproprioception by utilizing the user's natural capacity forneuromuscular memory. When a user grasps the sports equipment handle(100) and makes a swing, throw, or aligns to take a shot, the userobtains neuromuscular memory from the sensations recorded in the handsvia the tactile reference indentation (200 a) or the tactile referenceprojection (300 a), in addition to registering the entire body's spatialrelationships through proprioception. This information is stored and fedback through the body to the hands so the various muscles and joints areable to repeat the recorded performance to be transferred to the sportsequipment via the sports equipment handle (100). As a result, the sportsequipment handle (100) allows the user to build neuromuscular memory toconsistently strike, throw, or shoot a projectile with increasedaccuracy. The tactile reference indentation (200 a) or the tactilereference projection (300 a) provide heightened neurosensory input tofacilitate proprioception and muscle memory.

The sports equipment handle (100) on a piece of sports equipment may becustom tailored to the end users specifications such that the tactilereference indentation (200 a) or the tactile reference projection (300a) coincides with a pre-selected, user preferred, hand and fingerplacement on the sports equipment handle (100). As such, the tactilereference indentation (200 a) or the tactile reference projection (300a) additionally performs a “reminder” function. For example, the userwill be able to feel the tactile reference indentation (200 a) or thetactile reference projection (300 a) and know whether they are graspingthe sports equipment handle (100) with their preferred hand and fingerplacement. By knowing that the tactile reference indentation (200 a) orthe tactile reference projection (300 a) coincides with the preferredhand and finger placement and being able to tactilely perceive tactilereference indentation (200 a) or the tactile reference projection (300a), the user will have a higher level of psychomotor confidence, whichresults in hitting, throwing, or shooting a projectile with betteraccuracy. In fact, when the user grasps the sports equipment handle(100), the skin of their fingers, thumb, and/or palm will minimally sinkinto the tactile reference indentation (200 a). As seen in FIG. 10, adermal imprint (15) is formed when grasping the sports equipment handle(100). The dermal imprint (15) provides a very subtle and precisepsychomotor alignment “read” for the user at the microdermalneurosensory level, which ultimately leads to better movement of thesports equipment.

In one embodiment, the tactile reference indentation length (210 a) isat least 50 percent of the handle length (110). Having a tactilereference indentation (200 a) that extends along at least 50 percent ofthe handle length (110) accommodates the numerous styles of handpositioning and gripping used to grasp a piece of sports equipment. Sucha tactile reference indentation length (210 a) maximizes the opportunityfor the user's hands and fingers to come into contact with the tactilereference indentation (200 a) to receive maximum psychomotor tactilebiofeedback.

With reference now to FIG. 4, still another cross sectional embodimentof the sports equipment handle (100) is shown. In this particularembodiment, the sports equipment handle (100) further includes a secondtactile reference indentation (200 b) extending longitudinally along theexterior body surface (160). As seen in FIG. 4, the second tactilereference indentation (200 b) is confined to a second tactile octantselected from the group consisting of the first octant (161), the secondoctant (162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifthoctant (165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and theeighth octant (168) that does not include the tactile referenceindentation (200 a). The second tactile reference indentation (200 b)has a second tactile reference indentation length (210 b), a secondtactile reference indentation width (220 b) of at least 2.0 millimetersand no greater than 5.0 millimeters, and a second tactile referenceindentation depth (230 b) of at least 0.5 millimeters. In thisembodiment, there is a first tactile reference indentation (200 a)within the first tactile octant, and a second tactile referenceindentation (200 b) within the second tactile octant. Although FIG. 4shows the tactile reference indentation (200 a) in the second octant(162) and second tactile reference indentation (200 b) in the sixthoctant (166), the second tactile reference indentation (200 b) may alsobe located in the first octant (161), the third octant (163), the fourthoctant (164), the fifth octant (165), the seventh octant (167), or theeighth octant (168) with respect to the positioning of the tactilereference indentation (200 a) and how the octants (161, 162, 163, 164,165, 166, 167, 168) are defined in FIG. 4. Generally, the second tactilereference indentation (200 b) should be spaced from the tactilereference indentation (200 a) by at least a 10 degree angle, as measuredfrom the point of intersection between the four imaginary verticalplanes (20, 30, 40, 50), which point of intersection would typically bethe geometric center of the proximal end (120), i.e., the butt end, ofthe sports equipment handle (100) from a top plan view. Such spacingensures that first and second tactile reference indentations (200 a, 200b) are not so close together that a user would not be able to discern bytactile perception the two distinct tactile reference indentations (200a, 200 b).

By providing a second tactile reference indentation (200 b), there is anincreased opportunity for the user's hand(s), and associated fingerpads, thumb, and/or palm, to come into contact with the tactilereference indentations (200 a, 200 b) in order to receive additionaltactile biofeedback. As a result, the second tactile referenceindentation (200 b) provides even more information that is available forprocessing by the user's natural attributes of sensibility,proprioception, and neuromuscular memory to enable the user toconsistently hit, throw, or shoot a projectile with accuracy.

The sports equipment handle (100) on a piece of sports equipment may becustom tailored to the end users specifications such that the tactilereference indentation (200 a) and the second tactile referenceindentation (200 b) coincide with a pre-selected, user preferred, handand finger placement on the sports equipment handle (100). As such, thefirst and second tactile reference indentations (200 a, 200 b)additionally perform a “reminder” function. For example, the user willbe able to feel the first and/or second tactile reference indentations(200 a, 200 b) and know whether they are grasping the sports equipmenthandle (100) with their preferred hand and finger placement. By knowingthat the first and/or second tactile reference indentations (200 a, 200b) coincide with the preferred hand and finger placement and being ableto tactilely perceive the first and second tactile reference indentation(200 a, 200 b), the user will have a higher level of psychomotorconfidence, which results in a better sports equipment control.

FIGS. 6 and 8 are cross-sectional views illustrating embodiments havingmultiple tactile reference indentations including at least two tactilereference indentations in non-adjacent octants and at least twonon-adjacent octants having no palpable indicia. It should be noted thatthe embodiments shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 do not reflect all the possiblecombinations of arrangements at least two tactile reference indentationsin non-adjacent octants and at least two non-adjacent octants having nopalpable indicia but rather merely a few illustrative embodiments.Again, these embodiments ensure sufficient spacing of the tactilereference indentations (200 a, 200 b) to avoid providing competingtactile information that could be misinterpreted by the user's naturalbody processes of sensibility, proprioception, and neuromuscular memory.

With reference now to FIG. 5, still another cross sectional embodimentof the sports equipment handle (100) is shown. In this particularembodiment, the sports equipment handle (100) further includes a secondtactile reference projection (300 b) extending longitudinally along theexterior body surface (160). As seen in FIG. 5, the second tactilereference projection (300 b) is confined to a second tactile octantselected from the group consisting of the first octant (161), the secondoctant (162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifthoctant (165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and theeighth octant (168) that does not include the tactile referenceprojection (300 a). The second tactile reference projection (300 b) hasa second tactile reference indentation length (310 b), a second tactilereference projection width (320 b) of at least 2.0 millimeters and nogreater than 5.0 millimeters, and a tactile reference projection depth(330 b) of at least 0.5 millimeters. In this embodiment, there is afirst tactile reference projection (300 a) within the first tactileoctant, and a second tactile reference projection (300 b) within thesecond tactile octant. Although FIG. 5 shows the tactile referenceprojection (300 a) in the second octant (162) and second tactilereference projection (300 b) in the sixth octant (166), the secondtactile reference projection (300 b) may also be located in the firstoctant (161), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifthoctant (165), the seventh octant (167), or the eighth octant (168) withrespect to the positioning of the tactile reference indentation (200 a)and how the octants (161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168) are definedin FIG. 5. Generally, the second tactile reference projection (300 b)should be spaced from the tactile reference projection (300 a) by atleast a 10 degree angle, as measured from the point of intersectionbetween the four imaginary vertical planes (20, 30, 40, 50), which pointof intersection would typically be the geometric center of the proximalend (120), i.e., the butt end, of the sports equipment handle (100) froma top plan view. Such spacing ensures that first and second tactilereference projection (300 a, 300 b) are not so close together that auser would not be able to discern by tactile perception the two distincttactile reference projection (300 a, 300 b).

By providing a second tactile reference projection (300 b), there is anincreased opportunity for both of the user's hands, and associatedfinger pads, thumb, and/or palm, to come into contact with the tactilereference projections (300 a, 300 b) in order to receive additionaltactile biofeedback. As a result, the second tactile referenceprojection (300 b) provides even more information that is available forprocessing by the user's natural attributes of sensibility,proprioception, and neuromuscular memory to enable the user toconsistently hit, throw, or shoot a projectile with accuracy.

FIGS. 7 and 9 shows are cross-sectional views illustrating embodimentshaving multiple tactile reference indentations including at least twotactile reference projections in non-adjacent octants and at least twonon-adjacent octants having no palpable indicia. It should be noted thatthe embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 and 9 do not reflect all the possiblecombinations of arrangements at least two tactile reference projectionsin non-adjacent octants and at least two non-adjacent octants having nopalpable indicia but rather two illustrative embodiments. Again, theseembodiments ensure sufficient spacing of the tactile referenceprojections (300 a, 300 b) to avoid providing competing tactileinformation that could be misinterpreted by the user's natural bodyprocesses of sensibility, proprioception, and neuromuscular memory.

The sports equipment handle (100) on a piece of sports equipment may becustom tailored to the end users specifications such that the tactilereference projection (300 a) and the second tactile reference projection(300 b) coincide with a pre-selected, user preferred, hand and fingerplacement on the sports equipment handle (100). As such, the firstand/or second tactile reference projections (300 a, 300 b) additionallyperform a “reminder” function. For example, the user will be able tofeel the first and/or second tactile reference projections (300 a, 300b) and know whether they are grasping the sports equipment handle (100)with their preferred hand and finger placement. By knowing that thefirst and/or second tactile reference projections (300 a, 300 b)coincide with the preferred hand and finger placement and being able totactilely perceive the first and/or second tactile reference projections(300 a, 300 b), the user will have a higher level of psychomotorconfidence, which results in a better sports equipment control.

Referring now to FIG. 11, an additional embodiment of the sportsequipment handle (100) having a tactile reference indentation (200 a)and a second tactile reference indentation (200 b) is shown. In thisparticular embodiment, the tactile reference indentation (200 a) isconfined to the upper portion (102) of the sports equipment handle (100)and the second tactile reference indentation (200 b) is confined to thelower portion (103) of the sports equipment handle (100). Although notspecifically shown in FIG. 11, it should be noted that the tactilereference indentation (200 a) and the second tactile referenceindentation (200 b) are confined to separate octants. This particularembodiment strategically positions the tactile reference indentation(200 a) and the second tactile reference indentation (200 b) so that theleft thumb of a right-handed user contacts the tactile referenceindentation (200 a) and the user's right thumb contacts the secondtactile reference indentation (200 b). Thus, the user will be able tosense the first and/or second tactile reference indentations (200 a, 200b), which harnesses their natural attributes of sensibility,proprioception, and neuromuscular memory to enable the user toconsistently hit a projectile with accuracy. Of course, an embodimentsuited for a left-handed person using a conventional handle is alsocontemplated. In the left-handed version of the sports equipment handle(100), the tactile reference indentation (200 a) would be confined tothe lower portion (103) and the second tactile reference indentation(200 b) would be confined to the upper portion (102) such that that theleft thumb of a left-handed user contacts the tactile referenceindentation (200 a) and/or the user's right thumb contacts the secondtactile reference indentation (200 b).

In another embodiment of the sports equipment handle (100) having atactile reference projection (300 a) and a second tactile referenceprojection (300 b), the tactile reference projection (300 a) is confinedto the upper portion (102) of the sports equipment handle (100) and thesecond tactile reference projection (300 b) is confined to the lowerportion (103) of the sports equipment handle (100). In this embodiment,the tactile reference projection (300 a) and the second tactilereference projection (300 b) are confined to separate octants. Thisparticular embodiment strategically positions the tactile referenceprojection (300 a) and/or the second tactile reference projection (300b) so that the left thumb of a right-handed user contacts the tactilereference projection (300 a) and/or the user's right thumb contacts thesecond tactile reference projection (300 b). Thus, the user will be ableto sense the first and/or second tactile reference projections (300 a,300 b), which harnesses their natural attributes of sensibility,proprioception, and neuromuscular memory to enable the user toconsistently hit, throw, or shoot a projectile with accuracy. Of course,an embodiment suited for a left-handed person using a conventionalhandle is also contemplated. In the left-handed version of the sportsequipment handle (100), the tactile reference projection (300 a) wouldbe confined to the lower portion (103) and the second tactile referenceprojection (300 b) would be confined to the upper portion (102) suchthat that the left thumb of a left-handed user contacts the tactilereference projection (300 a) and/or the user's right thumb contacts thesecond tactile reference projection (300 b).

Referring now to FIG. 12, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a ping pong paddle is illustrated. As seen in FIG. 12, thesports equipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having ahandle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and anexterior body surface (160). FIG. 12 includes a reference to sectionline 2-2 and the associated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 2. Whilethe cross-sectional shape of FIG. 2 is circular, one skilled in the artwill appreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly elliptical shape of aping pong paddle handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are not limited tocircular handle embodiments illustrated and are referenced herein merelyfor illustration of the placement of the tactile reference indentation(200) or projection (300) with respect to the various octants of ahandle. The principles apply regardless of the exterior cross-sectionalshape of the handle and therefore the discussion above with respect toFIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merely referenced as applying toall the embodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 13, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a ping pong paddle is illustrated. In this embodiment thesports equipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having ahandle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and anexterior body surface (160). Just as the baseball bat embodiment mayincorporate at least one tactile reference indentation (200), projection(300), or combination of the both, so to may all the embodimentsdisclosed herein, including the ping pong paddle embodiment currentlydiscussed. Worth emphasizing one last time, FIG. 13 includes a referenceto section line 3-3 and the associated cross-section illustrated in FIG.3. While the cross-sectional shape of FIG. 3 is circular, one skilled inthe art will appreciate that the principles described herein applyequally to non-circular configurations such as the commonly ellipticalshape of a ping pong paddle handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are notlimited to circular handle embodiments illustrated and are referencedherein merely for illustration of the placement of the tactile referenceindentation (200) or projection (300) with respect to the variousoctants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of the exteriorcross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore the discussion abovewith respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merelyreferenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

Additionally, table tennis players use a wide variety of grip styleswhen holding a ping pong paddle, including the shakehand grip, thepenhold grip, and the Seemiller grip. Many grip styles incorporate aportion of the user's gripping hand wrapping around the proximal end(120) of the handle (100) and a portion of the paddle surface itself.Thus, a further embodiment may incorporate a tactile referenceprojection (300) along an edge of the paddle surface, as seen in FIG.12. Likewise, another embodiment may incorporate a tactile referenceindentation (200) along an edge of the paddle surface, as seen in FIG.13. In each of these embodiments the lineal length of the tactilereference projection (300) or indentation (200) is at least 0.5 incheslong, but may extend several inches to accommodate a wide variety ofgripping styles. In these embodiments the paddle edge tactile referenceindentation (200) and/or projection (300) may be in addition to, or inlieu of, tactile reference features on the handle itself. Such paddleedge embodiments provide the user with additional biofeedback regardingthe plane of the paddle surface via contact with the thumb, the indexfinger, and/or the area between the thumb and index finger, oftenreferred to as the thenar space and/or webbing. The previously disclosedsize of the tactile reference indentation (200) and projection (300)allow the user to spontaneously sense the orientation of the paddlesurface.

Referring now to FIG. 14, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a badminton racquet is illustrated. As seen in FIG. 14, thesports equipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having ahandle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and anexterior body surface (160). FIG. 14 includes a reference to sectionline 2-2 and the associated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 2. Whilethe cross-sectional shape of FIG. 2 is circular, one skilled in the artwill appreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly multi-sided rectangularshape of a badminton racquet handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 arenot limited to circular handle embodiments illustrated and arereferenced herein merely for illustration of the placement of thetactile reference indentation (200) or projection (300) with respect tothe various octants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of theexterior cross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore thediscussion above with respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here butmerely referenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 13, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a badminton racquet is illustrated. In this embodiment thesports equipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having ahandle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and anexterior body surface (160). Just as the baseball bat embodiment andping pong paddle embodiment may incorporate at least one tactilereference indentation (200), projection (300), or combination of theboth, so to may all the embodiments disclosed herein, including thebadminton racquet embodiment currently discussed. Worth emphasizing onelast time, FIG. 13 includes a reference to section line 3-3 and theassociated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 3. While thecross-sectional shape of FIG. 3 is circular, one skilled in the art willappreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly multi-sided rectangularshape of a badminton racquet handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 arenot limited to circular handle embodiments illustrated and arereferenced herein merely for illustration of the placement of thetactile reference indentation (200) or projection (300) with respect tothe various octants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of theexterior cross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore thediscussion above with respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here butmerely referenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 16, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a tennis racquet is illustrated. As seen in FIG. 16, the sportsequipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having a handlelength (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and an exteriorbody surface (160). FIG. 16 includes a reference to section line 2-2 andthe associated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 2. While thecross-sectional shape of FIG. 2 is circular, one skilled in the art willappreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly multi-sided rectangularshape of a tennis racquet handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are notlimited to circular handle embodiments illustrated and are referencedherein merely for illustration of the placement of the tactile referenceindentation (200) or projection (300) with respect to the variousoctants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of the exteriorcross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore the discussion abovewith respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merelyreferenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 17, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a tennis racquet is illustrated. In this embodiment the sportsequipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having a handlelength (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and an exteriorbody surface (160). Just as the baseball bat embodiment, ping pongpaddle embodiment, and badminton racquet embodiment may incorporate atleast one tactile reference indentation (200), projection (300), orcombination of the both, so to may all the embodiments disclosed herein,including the tennis racquet embodiment currently discussed. Worthemphasizing again, FIG. 17 includes a reference to section line 3-3 andthe associated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 3. While thecross-sectional shape of FIG. 3 is circular, one skilled in the art willappreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly multi-sided rectangularshape of a tennis racquet handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are notlimited to circular handle embodiments illustrated and are referencedherein merely for illustration of the placement of the tactile referenceindentation (200) or projection (300) with respect to the variousoctants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of the exteriorcross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore the discussion abovewith respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merelyreferenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 18, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a racquetball racquet is illustrated. As seen in FIG. 18, thesports equipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having ahandle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and anexterior body surface (160). FIG. 18 includes a reference to sectionline 2-2 and the associated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 2. Whilethe cross-sectional shape of FIG. 2 is circular, one skilled in the artwill appreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly multi-sided rectangularshape of a racquetball racquet handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 arenot limited to circular handle embodiments illustrated and arereferenced herein merely for illustration of the placement of thetactile reference indentation (200) or projection (300) with respect tothe various octants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of theexterior cross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore thediscussion above with respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here butmerely referenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 19, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a racquetball racquet is illustrated. In this embodiment thesports equipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having ahandle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and anexterior body surface (160). Just as the baseball bat embodiment, pingpong paddle embodiment, badminton racquet embodiment, and tennis racquetembodiment may incorporate at least one tactile reference indentation(200), projection (300), or combination of the both, so to may all theembodiments disclosed herein, including the racquetball racquetembodiment currently discussed. Worth emphasizing again, FIG. 19includes a reference to section line 3-3 and the associatedcross-section illustrated in FIG. 3. While the cross-sectional shape ofFIG. 3 is circular, one skilled in the art will appreciate that theprinciples described herein apply equally to non-circular configurationssuch as the commonly multi-sided rectangular shape of a racquetballracquet handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are not limited to circularhandle embodiments illustrated and are referenced herein merely forillustration of the placement of the tactile reference indentation (200)or projection (300) with respect to the various octants of a handle. Theprinciples apply regardless of the exterior cross-sectional shape of thehandle and therefore the discussion above with respect to FIGS. 2-9 willnot be repeated here but merely referenced as applying to all theembodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 20, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a cricket bat is illustrated. As seen in FIG. 20, the sportsequipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having a handlelength (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and an exteriorbody surface (160). FIG. 20 includes a reference to section line 2-2 andthe associated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 2. While thecross-sectional shape of FIG. 2 is circular, one skilled in the art willappreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly elliptical shape of acricket bat handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are not limited tocircular handle embodiments illustrated and are referenced herein merelyfor illustration of the placement of the tactile reference indentation(200) or projection (300) with respect to the various octants of ahandle. The principles apply regardless of the exterior cross-sectionalshape of the handle and therefore the discussion above with respect toFIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merely referenced as applying toall the embodiments disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 21, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a cricket bat is illustrated. In this embodiment the sportsequipment handle (100) includes a handle body (101) having a handlelength (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end (130), and an exteriorbody surface (160). Just as the baseball bat embodiment, ping pongpaddle embodiment, badminton racquet embodiment, tennis racquetembodiment, and racquetball racquet embodiments may incorporate at leastone tactile reference indentation (200), projection (300), orcombination of the both, so to may all the embodiments disclosed herein,including the cricket bat embodiment currently discussed. Worthemphasizing again, FIG. 21 includes a reference to section line 3-3 andthe associated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 3. While thecross-sectional shape of FIG. 3 is circular, one skilled in the art willappreciate that the principles described herein apply equally tonon-circular configurations such as the commonly multi-sided ellipticalshape of a cricket bat handle. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are notlimited to circular handle embodiments illustrated and are referencedherein merely for illustration of the placement of the tactile referenceindentation (200) or projection (300) with respect to the variousoctants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of the exteriorcross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore the discussion abovewith respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merelyreferenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

In each of the embodiments described above the tactile referenceindentation length (210) and the tactile reference projection length(310) is at least 25 millimeters to ensure a substantial portion of atleast one hand is in contact with the indentation or projection whilegripping the handle (100). In one particular preferred embodiment thetactile reference indentation length (210) and the tactile referenceprojection length (310) is at least six inches to ensure a substantialportion of at least one hand is in contact with the indentation orprojection while gripping the handle (100) while allowing a degree offlexibility in the actual location that a user places their hand(s) onthe handle (100).

Referring now to FIG. 22, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100 a) on a pool cue is illustrated. A pool cue is generally contactedby both hands of a user and therefore includes two handle sections,namely a top section (100 a) and a bottom section (100 b). The topsection (100 a) has a top section handle length (110 a), a top sectionproximal end (120 a), and a top section distal end (130 a). The bottomsection (100 b) has a bottom section handle length (110 b), a bottomsection proximal end (120 b), and a bottom section distal end (130 b).As with all prior embodiments, the pool cue embodiment has an exteriorbody surface (160).

The embodiment of FIG. 22 illustrates a tactile reference projection(300 a) in the top section (100 a) and a tactile reference indentation(200 a) in the bottom section (100 b), however one skilled in the artwill understand that this is merely for simplicity and reference to bothsection line 2-2 and section line 3-3 in a single FIGURE. The pool cuemay include a tactile reference projection (300) in both sections (100a, 100 b), a tactile reference indentation (200) in both sections, orany possible mix of projections (300) and indentations (200) on a singlecue stick, including having projections (300) and indentations (200) inthe same section (100 a, 100 b) but different octants, as is true willall the embodiments herein. One skilled in the art will appreciate thatthe principles described above with respect to FIGS. 2-9 apply equallyto this embodiment. Thus, reference to FIGS. 2-9 are referenced hereinmerely for illustration of the placement of the tactile referenceindentation (200) or projection (300) with respect to the variousoctants of a handle sections (100 a, 100 b). The discussion above withrespect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merely referenced asapplying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.

In one embodiment the tactile reference indentation (200) or the tactilereference projection (300) located in the bottom section (110 b) ispreferably located within twenty-four inches of the ball-striking tip ofthe cue stick, and the length (210, 310) is at least six inches. Inanother embodiment the tactile reference indentation (200) or thetactile reference projection (300) located in the top section (110 a) ispreferably located within twenty-four inches of the butt-end of the cuestick, and the length (210, 310) is at least six inches. A right handedplayer will typically grip the cue stick with the right hand in the topsection (110 a), while using their left hand to guide the bottom section(110 b) of the cue stick throughout the stroke. In a further embodimentthe tactile reference indentation (200) or projection (300) extendsmajority of the length of the pool cue with no distinction between aseparate indentation or projection in the top section (110 a) or thebottom section (110 b).

Generally professional pool players do not rotate the pool cue whenmaking a stroke with the pool cue. However new players almost alwaysrotate the pool cue one direction when pulling back to make a pool shot,and then rotate the pool cue back during the actual pool shot.Unfortunately, the rotation of the pool cue increases the likelihood ofinaccurate shots. In addition to all the benefits discussed above,tactile reference indentations (200) and/or tactile referenceprojections (300) on a pool cue help the pool player become aware of anyrotating motion during a pool shot, thereby resulting in a more accurateball strikes. The tactile reference indentation (200) and/or projection(300) allow the user to deliver the pool cue without rotation and in anexact preselected spot on the cue ball to create the direction androtation desired. Further, the tactile reference indentation (200) orprojection (300) in the bottom section (110 b) provides the user with agreater sense of whether the stroke of the cue stick is in perfectalignment with the desired direction of ball travel, or if the stroke ofthe cue stick is cutting across the ball.

The end of a pool cue is illustrated in FIGS. 23-25. The discussion ofthese figures will reference a pool cue end cap (400) as a separateattachment that may be applied to the end of a pool cue, however oneskilled in the art will appreciate that the elements of the end cap(400), namely the pool cue tactile reference indentation (500) or poolcue tactile reference projection, and benefits afforded there from, mayalso be obtained by the elements being formed directly in the end of thepool cue and are hereby an embodiment of this invention. While separatedrawings are not included for the pool cue tactile reference projection,by this point in the disclosure one skilled in the art will understandthat the pool cue tactile reference indentation (500) shown in FIGS.23-25 may just as easily be a projection consistent with the otherfigures and disclosure.

Some pool players like to wrap a finger, fingers, or even the palm ofthe hand, around the end of the pool cue when making a shot. In thissituation, the pool cue tactile reference indentation (500) orprojection gives the player biofeedback regarding the position of thepool cue in the same manner discussed above with respect to otherembodiments, thereby helping the player make better shots. The pool cueend cap (400) may have an end cap body (401) having an end cap proximalend (420), an end cap distal end (430), an end cap interior surface(405) and an end cap exterior surface (410). Additionally, the end cap(400) has a pool cue end cap interior aperture (406) located on the poolcue end cap distal end (430). Located on the end cap proximal end (420)is at least end cap tactile reference indentation (500 a) or projectionhaving an end cap tactile reference indentation length (510 a); an endcap tactile reference indentation width (520 a), as seen in FIG. 23; andan end cap tactile reference indentation depth (530 a) or height, asseen in FIG. 24. The pool cue end cap (400) is installed on a pool cuesports equipment handle (100) by sliding the bottom section proximal end(120 b) of sports equipment bottom section handle body (101 b) inside ofthe pool cue end cap interior aperture (406), as seen in FIG. 25.Another embodiment of the pool cue cap (400) has at least two end captactile reference indentations (500 a and 500 b) or projections oriented90 degrees from each other forming an “X” shape pattern as seen in FIG.23.

Referring now to FIG. 26, is a pool cue bridge (600) including at leastone pool cue trough (610) in which a pool cue is slid in a linearlyfashion, having a pool cue guidance projection (620). The pool cueguidance projection (610) is inserted into a pool cue's sport equipmenthandle bottom section (100 b) tactile reference indentation (200 a)thereby allowing linear pool cue motion while preventing rotationalmovement that would throw off a pool shot.

Referring now to FIG. 27, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a throwing dart is illustrated incorporating at least onetactile reference indentation (200 a). Similarly, FIG. 28 illustrates anembodiment of a sports equipment handle (100) on a throwing dart thatincorporates at least one tactile reference projection (300 a). As withthe other disclosed sports equipment handles (100), the throwing darthandle includes a handle body (101) having a handle length (110), aproximal end (120), a distal end (130), and an exterior body surface(160). The tactile reference indentation (200 a) embodiment of FIG. 27includes a reference to section line 2-2 and the associatedcross-section illustrated in FIG. 2, while the tactile referenceprojection (300 a) includes a reference to section line 3-3 and theassociated cross-section illustrated in FIG. 3. The disclosure abovewith respect to at least one tactile reference indentation (200) and/orat least one tactile reference projection (300), the size and placementof them, and the benefits afforded, also apply to this throwing dartembodiment and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

When throwing a dart it is important that the dart player release thedart in a linear fashion without rotational or yaw movements. Thetactile reference indentations (200) and/or tactile referenceprojections (300) help the dart player orient the dart during a throw toreduce both rotational and yaw movements, thereby allowing for moreaccurate throws.

Referring now to FIG. 29, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a firearm such as a rifle or shotgun. In this embodiment thetactile reference indentation (200) or projection (300) may be locatedon the stock, the forestock, and/or the butt of the firearm. The exampleof FIG. 29 illustrates both at least one tactile reference indentation(200) and projection (300) in the forestock of the firearm merely forsimplicity and reduction of duplicative drawings. As with all the priorembodiments, the sports equipment handle (100) of the firearm includes ahandle body (101) having a handle length (110), a proximal end (120), adistal end (130), and an exterior body surface (160). While FIG. 29 doesnot specifically reference section lines 2-2 and 3-3, it is understoodthat the tactile reference indentation (200) and/or projection (300) areconsistent with FIGS. 2-9 and the disclosure above with respect to size,location, and quantity. Reference to FIGS. 2-9 is not limited to thecircular handle embodiments illustrated and are referenced herein merelyfor illustration of the placement of the tactile reference indentation(200) or projection (300) with respect to the various octants of ahandle. The principles apply regardless of the exterior cross-sectionalshape of the handle and therefore the discussion above with respect toFIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here but merely referenced as applying toall the embodiments disclosed herein. In this embodiment the tactilereference indentation (200) or projection (300) on the forestock willonly be contacted by a single hand and therefore the length is at least25 millimeters. The forestock of the firearm may be divided into octantsas disclosed above with respect to FIGS. 2-9. Further, the butt of thefirearm may include at least one tactile reference indentation (200) orprojection (300) in a manner as similar to that of the pool cuedisclosed and illustrated in FIGS. 23-25. Such tactile referencefeatures may be formed directly in the butt end of the stock or in a padthat is attached to the stock. The tactile references of the butt endwill be felt on the bare shoulder, or through lightweight clothing, ofthe shooter. Such firearm tactile reference indentation or projectiongives the shooter biofeedback regarding the position and orientation ofthe firearm in the same manner discussed above with respect to otherembodiments, thereby helping the shooter properly position the firearmand make better shots. Another embodiment of the firearm butt tactilereference feature has at least two reference indentations or projectionsoriented 90 degrees from each other forming an “X” shape pattern as seenin FIG. 23.

Referring now to FIG. 30, an embodiment of a sports equipment handle(100) on a pistol. In this embodiment the tactile reference indentation(200) or projection (300) is located on the grip of the firearm. Theexample of FIG. 30 illustrates both at least one tactile referenceindentation (200) and projection (300) on a single pistol grip merelyfor simplicity and reduction of duplicative drawings. As with all theprior embodiments, the sports equipment handle (100) of the pistolincludes a handle body (101) having a handle length (110), a proximalend (120), a distal end (130), and an exterior body surface (160). WhileFIG. 30 does not specifically reference section lines 2-2 and 3-3, it isunderstood that the tactile reference indentation (200) and/orprojection (300) are consistent with FIGS. 2-9 and the disclosure abovewith respect to size, location, and quantity. Reference to FIGS. 2-9 isnot limited to the circular handle embodiments illustrated and arereferenced herein merely for illustration of the placement of thetactile reference indentation (200) or projection (300) with respect tothe various octants of a handle. The principles apply regardless of theexterior cross-sectional shape of the handle and therefore thediscussion above with respect to FIGS. 2-9 will not be repeated here butmerely referenced as applying to all the embodiments disclosed herein.In this embodiment the tactile reference indentation (200) or projection(300) on the pistol grip will only be contacted by a single hand andtherefore the length is at least 25 millimeters. Such pistol griptactile reference indentation or projection gives the shooterbiofeedback regarding the position and orientation of the firearm in thesame manner discussed above with respect to other embodiments, therebyhelping the shooter properly position the pistol and make better shots.An archery bow is held in front of a shooter in a fashion similar tothat of a pistol. Therefore, one skilled in the art will appreciate thata tactile reference indentation (200) and/or projection (300) may beincorporated into the handle of a bow to provide the same benefitsdiscussed throughout this application.

The sports equipment handle (100) may be produced from a variety ofmaterials. By way of example only, and not limitation, the sportsequipment handle (100) may be constructed of any conventional handlematerial, such as wood, metal, rubber, synthetic rubber, polymers,composites, and combinations thereof. The hardness of these types ofmaterials is most commonly measured by the Shore (Durometer) test. ShoreHardness, using either the Shore A or Shore D scale, is the preferredmethod for rubbers/elastomers. The Shore A scale is used for “softer”rubbers while the Shore D scale is used for “harder” ones. The Shorehardness is measured with an apparatus known as a Durometer andconsequently is also known as “Durometer hardness.” The hardness valueis determined by the penetration of the Durometer indenter foot into thesample. The ASTM test method designation is ASTM D2240 00 and isgenerally used in North America. Related methods include ISO 7619 andISO 868; DIN 53505; and JIS K 6301, which was discontinued andsuperceeded by JIS K 6253.

Some of the embodiments disclosed herein, including but not limited tobadminton racquet handles, racquetball racquet handles, tennis racquethandles, cricket bat handles, cue sticks, and archery/firearms, thehandles may be covered with a grip, often made of a softer leather orsynthetic material applied to the handle. Such grips may incorporate thetactile reference indentation (200) and projection (300) disclosedherein. Thus, this disclosure concerning the size and location of thetactile reference indentation (200) and projection (300) applies equallyto grips that are then applied over the handles.

The palm side of the human hand has a durometer value ranging fromapproximately 25 to approximately 35 Shore A on the hardness scale. Inyet another embodiment, the durometer of the sports equipment handle(100), the tactile reference indentation (200), and/or the tactilereference projection (300) is at least 70 percent greater than thedurometer value of the palm side of the human hand. Thus, in oneembodiment the sports equipment handle (100), the tactile referenceindentation (200), and/or the tactile reference projection (300) has adurometer value greater than 60 Shore A on the hardness scale to ensurethat the sports equipment handle (100), the tactile referenceindentation (200), and/or the tactile reference projection (300) issignificantly harder than the portion of the human hand, and thereforethe tactile reference indentation and/or projection is even moreperceivable. In an even further embodiment the sports equipment handle(100) has a durometer value of at least 65 Shore A on the hardness scaleto ensure that the sports equipment handle (100) is significantly harderthan the portion of the human hand.

Thus, one skilled in the art will appreciate that an even furtherembodiment consists of at least one tactile reference projection (300)that may be applied to the handle of a preexisting piece of sportsequipment. For instance, one embodiment may incorporate a kit of one ormore one tactile reference projections (300) that may be adhered to thehandle of an ordinary piece of sports equipment. For example, a user mayapply a tactile reference projection (300) to the handle of a standardbaseball bat, or any other piece of sports equipment, to determine ifthe addition of the tactile reference projection (300) improves theirball striking, throwing, or shooting. Alternatively, the tactilereference indentation (200) or projection (300) may be formed in thehandle of piece of sports equipment utilizing traditional handlemanufacturing processes.

In the case of a grip applied over a handle, or a nonmetallic handle,the grip, handle, or tactile reference indentation (200) or projection(300) may be made of rubber, synthetic rubber or polymers, which may beproduced by injection molding or extrusion molding. Often conventionalhandle molding techniques are limited in their ability to produce asports equipment handle (100) having a tactile reference indentation(200 a) or a tactile reference projection (300 a) with distinct sharpedges, i.e., zero radius edges. Therefore, the sports equipment handle(100) may be formed by a molding process followed by a CNC machiningprocess. Additionally, the sports equipment handle (100) may be producedby an advanced compression molding process, laser cutting, or a waterjet. Furthermore, a sports equipment handle (100) that is made out ofwood, metal, or composites, and combinations thereof may be formed byCNC machining, laser cutting, and or water jet cutting to form the basicshape of the sports equipment handle (100) and any tactile referenceindentations (200) or tactile reference projections (300) found thereon.

Thus far the disclosure has included baseball bat embodiments, ping pongpaddle embodiments, badminton racquet embodiments, tennis racquetembodiments, racquetball racquet embodiments, cricket bat embodiments,pool cue embodiments, dart embodiments, and archery/firearm embodiments;one skilled in the art will appreciated that the disclosure appliesequally to the squash racquets, curling stone handles, pole vaultingpole handles, lacrosse stick handles, handles for water sport paddlessuch as kayak and canoe paddle handles, fishing rod handles and grips,fly fishing rod handles and grips, motorcycle and snowmobile handles andgrips, discuses, javelins, and hammers which are included herein withoutthe need for repetitive discussion. Numerous alterations, modifications,and variations of the preferred embodiments disclosed herein will beapparent to those skilled in the art and they are all anticipated andcontemplated to be within the spirit and scope of the sports equipmenthandle (100). For example, although specific embodiments have beendescribed in detail, those with skill in the art will understand thatthe preceding embodiments and variations can be modified to incorporatevarious types of substitute and or additional or alternative materials,relative arrangement of elements, and dimensional configurations.Accordingly, even though only few variations of the sports equipmenthandle (100) are described herein, it is to be understood that thepractice of such additional modifications and variations and theequivalents thereof, are within the spirit and scope of the invention.

I claim:
 1. A sports equipment handle (100) comprising: a handle body(101) having a handle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distal end(130), and an exterior body surface (160), wherein the exterior bodysurface (160) is defined by a first octant (161), a second octant (162),a third octant (163), a fourth octant (164), a fifth octant (165), asixth octant (166), a seventh octant (167), and an eighth octant (168);at least a first tactile reference indentation (200 a) extending alongthe exterior body surface (160) and confined to a first tactile octant,wherein the first tactile octant is selected from the group consistingof the first octant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant(163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant(166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168), the firsttactile reference indentation (200 a) having a first tactile referenceindentation length (210 a), a first tactile reference indentation width(220 a) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greater than 5.0 millimeters,and a first tactile reference indentation depth (230 a) of at least 0.5millimeters, wherein the only palpable indicia within the first tactileoctant is the first tactile reference indentation (200 a); and whereinthe first tactile reference indentation (200 a) provides a user withtactile biofeedback by two-point discrimination when gripping the handle(100).
 2. The sports equipment handle of claim 1, wherein the firsttactile reference indentation length (210 a) is at least 50 percent ofthe handle length (110).
 3. The sports equipment handle of claim 1,wherein at least two octants selected from the group consisting of thefirst octant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant (163), thefourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166), theseventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168) that do not includethe first tactile reference indentation (200 a), have no palpableindicia.
 4. The sports equipment handle of claim 3, wherein the at leasttwo octants having no palpable indicia are not adjacent to one another.5. The sports equipment handle of claim 1, wherein the handle (100)further includes a second tactile reference indentation (200 b)extending along the exterior body surface (160) and confined to a secondtactile octant, wherein the second tactile octant is selected from thegroup consisting of the first octant (161), the second octant (162), thethird octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), thesixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant(168) that does not include the first tactile reference indentation (200a), the second tactile reference indentation (200 b) having a secondtactile reference indentation length (210 b), a second tactile referenceindentation width (220 b) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greaterthan 5.0 millimeters, and a second tactile reference indentation depth(230 b) of at least 0.5 millimeters; and wherein the second tactilereference indentation (200 b) provides a user with tactile biofeedbackby two-point discrimination when gripping the handle (100).
 6. Thesports equipment handle of claim 5, wherein the first tactile octant andthe second tactile octant are not adjacent to one another.
 7. The sportsequipment handle of claim 5, wherein the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a) is confined to the upper portion (102) and thesecond tactile reference indentation (200 b) is confined to the lowerportion (103).
 8. The sports equipment handle of claim 5, wherein aportion of the first tactile reference indentation (200 a) is located inthe upper portion (102) and a portion of the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a) is located in the lower portion (103), and thesecond tactile reference indentation (200 b) is confined to the lowerportion (103).
 9. The sports equipment handle of claim 1, wherein thefirst tactile reference indentation (200 a) has a durometer value of atleast 65 Shore A on the hardness scale.
 10. The sports equipment handleof claim 5, wherein the handle (100) further includes a third tactilereference indentation (200 c) extending along the exterior body surface(160) and confined to a third tactile octant, wherein the third tactileoctant is selected from the group consisting of the first octant (161),the second octant (162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant(164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166), the seventhoctant (167), and the eighth octant (168) that does not include thefirst tactile reference indentation (200 a) and does not include thesecond tactile reference indentation (200 b), the third tactilereference indentation (200 c) having a third tactile referenceindentation length (210 c), a third tactile reference indentation width(220 c) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greater than 5.0 millimeters,and a third tactile reference indentation depth (230 c) of at least 0.5millimeters; and wherein the third tactile reference indentation (200 c)provides a user with tactile biofeedback by two-point discriminationwhen gripping the handle (100).
 11. The sports equipment handle of claim10, wherein the first tactile octant, the second tactile octant, and thethird tactile octant are not adjacent to one another.
 12. The sportsequipment handle of claim 10, wherein the handle (100) further includesa fourth tactile reference indentation (200 d) extending along theexterior body surface (160) and confined to a fourth tactile octant,wherein the fourth tactile octant is selected from the group consistingof the first octant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant(163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant(166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168) that doesnot include the first tactile reference indentation (200 a), does notinclude the second tactile reference indentation (200 b), and does notinclude the third tactile reference indentation (200 c), the fourthtactile reference indentation (200 d) having a fourth tactile referenceindentation length (210 d), a fourth tactile reference indentation width(220 d) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greater than 5.0 millimeters,and a fourth tactile reference indentation depth (230 d) of at least 0.5millimeters; and wherein the fourth tactile reference indentation (200d) provides a user with tactile biofeedback by two-point discriminationwhen gripping the handle (100).
 13. The sports equipment handle of claim12, wherein the first tactile octant, the second tactile octant, thethird tactile octant, and the fourth tactile octant are not adjacent toone another.
 14. A sports equipment handle (100) comprising: a handlebody (101) having a handle length (110), a proximal end (120), a distalend (130), and an exterior body surface (160), wherein the exterior bodysurface (160) is defined by a first octant (161), a second octant (162),a third octant (163), a fourth octant (164), a fifth octant (165), asixth octant (166), a seventh octant (167), and an eighth octant (168);at least a first tactile reference indentation (200 a) extending alongthe exterior body surface (160) and confined to a first tactile octant,wherein the first tactile octant is selected from the group consistingof the first octant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant(163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant(166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168), the firsttactile reference indentation (200 a) having a first tactile referenceindentation length (210 a), a first tactile reference indentation width(220 a) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greater than 5.0 millimeters,and a first tactile reference indentation depth (230 a) of at least 0.5millimeters, wherein the only palpable indicia within the first tactileoctant is the first tactile reference indentation (200 a); at least asecond tactile reference indentation (200 b) extending along theexterior body surface (160) and confined to a second tactile octant,wherein the second tactile octant is selected from the group consistingof the first octant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant(163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant(166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168) that doesnot include the first tactile reference indentation (200 a), the secondtactile reference indentation (200 b) having a second tactile referenceindentation length (210 b), a second tactile reference indentation width(220 b) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greater than 5.0 millimeters,and a second tactile reference indentation depth (230 b) of at least 0.5millimeters; wherein the first tactile octant and the second tactileoctant are not adjacent to one another, and the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a) and the second tactile reference indentation (200 b)provide a user with tactile biofeedback by two-point discrimination whengripping the handle (100); wherein the handle body (100) is a portion ofa sports equipment handle (100) selected from a group of swinging sportsequipment consisting of: bats, paddles, racquets, lacrosse sticks,fishing rods, pole vaulting poles, paddles, and pool cues; and whereinat least two octants selected from the group consisting of the firstoctant (161), the second octant (162), the third octant (163), thefourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166), theseventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168) that do not includethe first tactile reference indentation (200 a), have no palpableindicia.
 15. The sports equipment handle of claim 14, wherein the firsttactile reference indentation length (210 a) and the second tactilereference indentation length (210 b) are at least 50 percent of thehandle length (110).
 16. The sports equipment handle of claim 15,wherein the handle (100) further includes a third tactile referenceindentation (200 c) extending along the exterior body surface (160) andconfined to a third tactile octant, wherein the third tactile octant isselected from the group consisting of the first octant (161), the secondoctant (162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifthoctant (165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and theeighth octant (168) that does not include the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a) and does not include the second tactile referenceindentation (200 b), the third tactile reference indentation (200 c)having a third tactile reference indentation length (210 c), a thirdtactile reference indentation width (220 c) of at least 2.0 millimetersand no greater than 5.0 millimeters, and a third tactile referenceindentation depth (230 c) of at least 0.5 millimeters; and wherein thethird tactile reference indentation (200 c) provides a user with tactilebiofeedback by two-point discrimination when gripping the handle (100).17. The sports equipment handle of claim 16, wherein the first tactileoctant, the second tactile octant, and the third tactile octant are notadjacent to one another.
 18. A sports equipment handle (100) comprising:a handle body (101) having a handle length (110), a proximal end (120),a distal end (130), and an exterior body surface (160), wherein theexterior body surface (160) is defined by a first octant (161), a secondoctant (162), a third octant (163), a fourth octant (164), a fifthoctant (165), a sixth octant (166), a seventh octant (167), and aneighth octant (168); at least a first tactile reference indentation (200a) extending along the exterior body surface (160) and confined to afirst tactile octant, wherein the first tactile octant is selected fromthe group consisting of the first octant (161), the second octant (162),the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165),the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant(168), the first tactile reference indentation (200 a) having a firsttactile reference indentation length (210 a), a first tactile referenceindentation width (220 a) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greaterthan 5.0 millimeters, and a first tactile reference indentation depth(230 a) of at least 0.5 millimeters, wherein the only palpable indiciawithin the first tactile octant is the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a); at least a second tactile reference indentation(200 b) extending along the exterior body surface (160) and confined toa second tactile octant, wherein the second tactile octant is selectedfrom the group consisting of the first octant (161), the second octant(162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant(165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighthoctant (168) that does not include the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a), the second tactile reference indentation (200 b)having a second tactile reference indentation length (210 b), a secondtactile reference indentation width (220 b) of at least 2.0 millimetersand no greater than 5.0 millimeters, and a second tactile referenceindentation depth (230 b) of at least 0.5 millimeters; wherein the firsttactile octant and the second tactile octant are not adjacent to oneanother, and the first tactile reference indentation (200 a) and thesecond tactile reference indentation (200 b) provide a user with tactilebiofeedback by two-point discrimination when gripping the handle (100);wherein the handle body (100) is a portion of a sports equipment handle(100) selected from a group of projectiles consisting of: throwingdarts, discus, javelins, hammers, and curling stones; and wherein atleast two octants selected from the group consisting of the first octant(161), the second octant (162), the third octant (163), the fourthoctant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166), theseventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168) that do not includethe first tactile reference indentation (200 a), have no palpableindicia.
 19. The sports equipment handle of claim 18, wherein the firsttactile reference indentation length (210 a) and the second tactilereference indentation length (210 b) are at least 50 percent of thehandle length (110).
 20. The sports equipment handle of claim 18,wherein the handle (100) further includes a third tactile referenceindentation (200 c) extending along the exterior body surface (160) andconfined to a third tactile octant, wherein the third tactile octant isselected from the group consisting of the first octant (161), the secondoctant (162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifthoctant (165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and theeighth octant (168) that does not include the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a) and does not include the second tactile referenceindentation (200 b), the third tactile reference indentation (200 c)having a third tactile reference indentation length (210 c), a thirdtactile reference indentation width (220 c) of at least 2.0 millimetersand no greater than 5.0 millimeters, and a third tactile referenceindentation depth (230 c) of at least 0.5 millimeters; and wherein thethird tactile reference indentation (200 c) provides a user with tactilebiofeedback by two-point discrimination when gripping the handle (100).21. The sports equipment handle of claim 20, wherein the first tactileoctant, the second tactile octant, and the third tactile octant are notadjacent to one another.
 22. A sports equipment handle (100) comprising:a handle body (101) having a handle length (110), a proximal end (120),a distal end (130), and an exterior body surface (160), wherein theexterior body surface (160) is defined by a first octant (161), a secondoctant (162), a third octant (163), a fourth octant (164), a fifthoctant (165), a sixth octant (166), a seventh octant (167), and aneighth octant (168); at least a first tactile reference indentation (200a) extending along the exterior body surface (160) and confined to afirst tactile octant, wherein the first tactile octant is selected fromthe group consisting of the first octant (161), the second octant (162),the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant (165),the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighth octant(168), the first tactile reference indentation (200 a) having a firsttactile reference indentation length (210 a), a first tactile referenceindentation width (220 a) of at least 2.0 millimeters and no greaterthan 5.0 millimeters, and a first tactile reference indentation depth(230 a) of at least 0.5 millimeters, wherein the only palpable indiciawithin the first tactile octant is the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a); at least a second tactile reference indentation(200 b) extending along the exterior body surface (160) and confined toa second tactile octant, wherein the second tactile octant is selectedfrom the group consisting of the first octant (161), the second octant(162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifth octant(165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and the eighthoctant (168) that does not include the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a), the second tactile reference indentation (200 b)having a second tactile reference indentation length (210 b), a secondtactile reference indentation width (220 b) of at least 2.0 millimetersand no greater than 5.0 millimeters, and a second tactile referenceindentation depth (230 b) of at least 0.5 millimeters; wherein the firsttactile octant and the second tactile octant are not adjacent to oneanother, and the first tactile reference indentation (200 a) and thesecond tactile reference indentation (200 b) provide a user with tactilebiofeedback by two-point discrimination when gripping the handle (100);wherein the handle body (100) is a portion of a sports equipment handle(100) selected from a group of shooting implements consisting of:archery bows, firearm forestocks, and pistol grips; and wherein at leasttwo octants selected from the group consisting of the first octant(161), the second octant (162), the third octant (163), the fourthoctant (164), the fifth octant (165), the sixth octant (166), theseventh octant (167), and the eighth octant (168) that do not includethe first tactile reference indentation (200 a), have no palpableindicia.
 23. The sports equipment handle of claim 22, wherein the firsttactile reference indentation length (210 a) and the second tactilereference indentation length (210 b) are at least 50 percent of thehandle length (110).
 24. The sports equipment handle of claim 22,wherein the handle (100) further includes a third tactile referenceindentation (200 c) extending along the exterior body surface (160) andconfined to a third tactile octant, wherein the third tactile octant isselected from the group consisting of the first octant (161), the secondoctant (162), the third octant (163), the fourth octant (164), the fifthoctant (165), the sixth octant (166), the seventh octant (167), and theeighth octant (168) that does not include the first tactile referenceindentation (200 a) and does not include the second tactile referenceindentation (200 b), the third tactile reference indentation (200 c)having a third tactile reference indentation length (210 c), a thirdtactile reference indentation width (220 c) of at least 2.0 millimetersand no greater than 5.0 millimeters, and a third tactile referenceindentation depth (230 c) of at least 0.5 millimeters; and wherein thethird tactile reference indentation (200 c) provides a user with tactilebiofeedback by two-point discrimination when gripping the handle (100).25. The sports equipment handle of claim 24, wherein the first tactileoctant, the second tactile octant, and the third tactile octant are notadjacent to one another.